Author Question: A mother calls the outpatient clinic requesting information on appropriate dosing for ... (Read 34 times)

DelorasTo · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A mother calls the outpatient clinic requesting information on appropriate dosing for over-the-counter medications for her 13-month-old who has symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection and fever.

The box of acetaminophen says to give 120 mg q4h when needed. At his 12-month visit, the nurse practitioner prescribed 150 mg. The nurse's best response is:
a. The doses are close enough; it doesn't really matter which one is given.
b. It is not appropriate to use dosages based on age because children have a wide range of weights at different ages.
c. From your description, medications are not necessary. They should be avoided in children at this age.
d. The nurse practitioner ordered the drug based on weight, which is a more accurate way of determining a therapeutic dose.

Question 2

The nurse gives an injection in a patient's room. The nurse should perform which intervention with the needle for disposal?

a. Dispose of syringe and needle in a rigid, puncture-resistant container in patient's room.
b. Dispose of syringe and needle in a rigid, puncture-resistant container in an area outside of patient's room.
c. Cap needle immediately after giving injection and dispose of in proper container.
d. Cap needle, break from syringe, and dispose of in proper container.

otokexnaru · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
The method most often used to determine children's dosage is based on a specific dose per kilogram of body weight. The mother should be given correct information. For a therapeutic effect, the dosage should be based on weight, not age. Acetaminophen can be used to relieve discomfort in children at this age group.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
All needles (uncapped and unbroken) are disposed of in a rigid, puncture-resistant container located near the site of use. Consequently, these containers should be installed in the patient's room. The uncapped needle should not be transported to an area distant from use. Needles are disposed of uncapped and unbroken.